Online traffic data tool shows public benefit of internet of things

Perhaps the greatest promise of the internet of things is the insights to be gained from a flood of data provided by ubiquitous, wirelessly connected sensors. On Jan 9, this promise came closer to reality when Uber announced the launch of a new website that will display traffic data in the cities where it operates. The new website, Uber Movement, will display traffic volumes in different city zones based on anonymized data from Uber drivers’ smartphone applications. This website aims to make urban transportation more efficient by providing current data on traffic patterns. Ultimately, this practice could expand beyond the transportation sector and lead to both greater private sector data sharing along with greater data-driven policymaking.